How to keep your children safe around water

The Importance of Water Safety

Water is very appealing for children, and babies and toddlers love to splash and wade, enjoying the new sensations and excitement. However, as much fun as it can be for curious little ones at play, water can also be very dangerous. Because drowning is the leading cause of injury-related deaths for small children, it is vital that you take proactive measures to keep your children safe. While backyard swimming pools are particularly hazardous, a toddler can drown in just a couple of inches of water. This is because their heads are large in proportion to their bodies. If a toddler falls into water, that heavy head is hard to lift, and this can mean that the little one can’t get his or her airway clear. A drowning child cannot call for help, so it’s important to reduce this risk as much as possible. Continue reading “How to keep your children safe around water”

Midwives: What are they and should you and your partner have one?

Is a Midwife the Right Option for You and Your Partner?

When you are expecting a baby, there are many decisions you will have to make. At the top of this list is choosing who will care for mom during pregnancy and labor, ushering your little one into the world. It needs to be someone you trust to provide you with skilled, reliable, compassionate care, and the decision is very personal. You need to feel comfortable and connected to your care provider, so should you choose an OB-GYN or a midwife? Both are valid options, but there are some important differences between these two types of providers. Continue reading “Midwives: What are they and should you and your partner have one?”

Tips to Help Feed Your Newborn as a First-time Father

Feeding a Newborn

Feeding a baby is a round-the-clock activity, because newborns need to eat about every two to three hours. If your partner is breastfeeding, you may think you can leave it up to her, but it’s better if you’re involved, too. If the baby is exclusively breast fed, your partner may prefer to nurse, rather than offering a bottle, until your baby has settled into a routine. However, you can still be involved, and this can be a good way to bond with your little one. Continue reading “Tips to Help Feed Your Newborn as a First-time Father”

How to Prepare for the Phases of Pregnancy as a New Dad

How Pregnancy Affects the New Dad

When you and your partner are expecting a baby, she will obviously be doing most of the heavy lifting. However, this doesn’t mean the pregnancy won’t have an impact on you. It’s a very exciting time, the start of a new adventure, and it is important for dads to prepare for each phase of pregnancy, even as moms do. When you know what to expect, you can embrace the experience together and enjoy the journey together. Continue reading “How to Prepare for the Phases of Pregnancy as a New Dad”

The Importance of Playing with Your Children

Being a parent is at once challenging and rewarding, and the same can be true for playing with our children. Just about every parent can relate to the scenario of being exhausted from caring for your kids, only to be asked to play with them. At the same time, connection with your children is precious, and time spent playing with them can nurture that. While you might feel silly at first, if you relax, eliminate distractions like your cell phone, and have some fun with your child, you will find that both you and your child will benefit. Playing with your child helps you connect with your child, and it causes your brain to release oxytocin, which will make you feel better, even if you’re tired. For children, playing with parents is important.

Continue reading “The Importance of Playing with Your Children”